For over two decades, developing countries and donor organizations have made substantial investments in vocational education and training. This study identifies lessons learned from these efforts, based on a literature review and an examination of more than 50 USAID projects conducted from 1973 to 1989. Of these projects, 24 were selected for intensive review, and 2 (in Honduras and Jamaica) for case studies. Following an introduction, Chapter II outlines issues surrounding investment in vocational training, while Chapter III compares various formal and nonformal training alternatives and examines the training needs of small and medium-sized employers. Chapter IV looks at the organizational and operational requirements of vocational training projects, focusing on management issues, instructional staff, and instructional resources. Chapter V evaluates funding options: general public revenues, payroll taxes, user fees, and student loans. A summary chapter offers recommendations for investing in vocational training, with emphasis on the Latin American and Caribbean, and guidelines for strengthening project design. References, project descriptions, and the case studies are appended.
